When it comes to Portuguese cuisine in Macao, many people first think of those "tourist-favorite" shops around Senado Square. But if you're willing to walk a bit deeper into the alleys, you'll discover that the Macao Peninsula actually hides many old establishments that locals have been eating at since childhood—these places don't cater to tourists, yet they preserve the soul of Portuguese cooking most faithfully.
Portuguese cuisine in Macao actually comes in two types: one is "authentic Portuguese cuisine", classic recipes transplanted directly from Portugal; the other is "Macau Portuguese cuisine", a unique hybrid cuisine exclusive to Macao—using Portuguese cooking techniques combined with Southeast Asian spices and ingredients. Examples include Portuguese curry, African chicken, and bacalhau balls. In 2026, Macao's dining scene shows a clear trend: more high-end restaurants are opening, but the survival space for old establishments has become even more precious. Many legacy shops have closed due to lack of successors. This gives these old flavors a rare "eat once, less chance to eat again" quality.
If you want to experience the authentic Macao Portuguese flavor, here are my personal recommended "hidden gem" list:
Portuguese Codfish House Located at Mercado Street No. 34, with a Google rating of 4.9 stars. This shop specializes in bacalhau—salted codfish that Portuguese people love most. There are many ways to enjoy bacalhau in Macao. Their signature dish is bacalhau balls: crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with a well-balanced codfish ratio—not too salty, not too bland. The shop insists on handmade production daily, with limited quantities. Usually, you can still get fresh ones before 2 PM. The shop is small, with only a few tables. The owner is a veteran master chef. If you ask him for a recommendation, he'll simply say "just get the bacalhau." Average spending is approximately MOP$80-120, definitely great value.
Macau Portuguese Cuisine Located at Gondola Ferryman Lane 3-5 G/F. The name directly tells you its positioning—serving Macau's unique Macau Portuguese cuisine. Signature dishes are Portuguese curry crab and African chicken. Portuguese curry differs from Indian curry—heavy coconut milk flavor but not greasy, with sweet crab meat; African chicken is roast chicken with a mildly spicy sauce, with well-marinated meat. The space is not large, with simple decor, but the walls are filled with old photos, making you feel like stepping into a traditional Macau family dining room. Average spending MOP$150-200, suitable for travelers who want an authentic Macau Portuguese meal.
Santos Portuguese Restaurant Located at Avenida de Horta e Costa 7-9 G/F, it's an old establishment among old establishments in Macao. Operating for over 40 years, it has experienced Macao's most glorious dining era and persevered through the pandemic. Their Portuguese chicken is the signature—not the version with excessive coconut milk, but using traditional Portuguese methods: chicken is marinated with spices before stewing, resulting in a rich yet layered broth, perfect with bread. The pricing here is relatively affordable, approximately MOP$120-180, and the portions are enough for two people to share. If you want to experience the taste of older generations in Macao, this place won't disappoint.
Portuguese Bistro Located at Senado Square 7-9 G/F. Interestingly, this place is actually in the tourist area but unexpectedly maintains the bones of an old establishment. Their roast suckling pig is the signature—crispy skin like a biscuit, yet tender and juicy meat, served with garlic rice. Eating a whole portion by yourself will be extremely satisfying. This shop has special operating hours: opens at noon and closes at 8 PM. Come early if you want to eat. Average spending MOP$180-250, slightly expensive but worth it.
The last one is Galileu Portuguese Restaurant, located at Rua de António Dynamite. This place is farther from the tourist area, close to the Inner Harbour pier, with few tourists making the special trip. But precisely because of that, it preserves much of old Macao's atmosphere. Their seafood paella is well done—the saffron aroma is just right, not overpowering the seafood's freshness. Especially recommended is their garlic prawns—large size, firm and springy meat, simple seasoning that best showcases the ingredients' quality. Spending approximately MOP$130-180, is the kind of place you'd want to return to.
Practical Information:
Regarding transportation, all the above shops are in the Macao Peninsula city center, mostly accessible by bus or taxi. If you're staying at Cotai Golden Bay, you can take a bus to the Macao Peninsula city center, with a journey of about 15-20 minutes. Macao's bus network is extensive. You can use a Macau Pass or cash. Remember to press the bell before your stop.
Regarding operating hours, these old establishments typically serve lunch from 11:30-14:30 and dinner from 18:00-21:00. They may be closed or close early on Sundays. It's recommended to call ahead to confirm before setting out.
Regarding costs, the average spending at the above restaurants is approximately MOP$80-250, depending on how many dishes you order. If you want to stay within budget, going during lunch hours is most economical—many shops offer set meals or lunch specials.
Travel Tips: One characteristic of Macao's restaurants is "no reservations," especially these old establishments, which often operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Friday and Saturday evenings usually require queuing. It's best to avoid peak hours or go earlier. Additionally, the service staff at these old establishments are generally older, and communication may primarily be in Cantonese, with English not very fluent. Using your finger to point at the menu or gesture is actually the most effective way—perhaps the owner will even give you an extra dish because of your诚意.
One final reminder: due to rising rents and lack of successors, the old restaurants on the Macao Peninsula that have survived in recent years are those with true capabilities. The 2026 dining trends show that more trending new high-end restaurants are targeting social media check-ins, but the value of these old establishments lies in—they're not selling decoration, but decades of craftsmanship. If you come to Macao and want to eat "authentic Portuguese cuisine" rather than "Portuguese cuisine for tourists," these shops are worth making a special trip for.
